Patient Guidelines

Chaperones

If you would like a chaperone please let the Doctor know at the beginning of your consultation, so we can make suitable arrangements.

 

 

Patients with particular needs

The Health Centre and the entrance to the Surgery have automatic opening doors for wheelchair and pram access. The Reception desk also has a low section at the far end for wheelchair users. There is a disabled toilet and this can also be used by mothers for nappy changing. For patients who do not speak English we can arrange for an interpreter but kindly let Reception know in advance



 

Change of details

It is important to tell us if you change your name, address or telephone number. In an emergency this information could be vital. We are also asking for patients’ mobile telephone numbers, as we are using text messaging as a convenient way to remind patients about their upcoming appointments.


 
We can provide our services only if you live within our catchment area.  If you move away from the Practice area, you will have to register with a GP in your new locality.

 

 

Patient responsibility

                                        
  • Making and keeping appointments
  • Behaving in an acceptable manner. We ask that you show the same levels of courtesy and respect that you would expect to recive
  • Keeping young children in your care under constant supervision and making sure that they behave appropriately
  • Switching off your mobile telephone while you are in the Surgery waiting room and the consulting room. 

 
 

Patient Information

We treat Patient notes with strict confidentiality and we comply with the Data Protection Act 1998. From time to time representatives of the Clinical Commissioning Group will need to audit patient records and although the  auditors may not be medically qualified they are bound by their contract to respect confidentiality.


A change in the law now allows patients to see their medical records. Should you wish to see yours please book an appointment with a Doctor specifying your request. Alternatively, you can ask for copies of your medical records but we will have to charge you a fee.

 

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 obliges the Practice to make certain information available. Should you wish to obtain information under the Act please write to the Managing Partner with your request. If the information can be released we may have to charge a fee.

 

Training

We train both undergraduate student Doctors from Imperial College and postgraduate GP Registrars. GP Registrars are fully qualified Doctors who spend a year with us before moving on to their own Practice. At times, a student GP may sit in with your own Doctor during your consultation.  They may  also accompany your Doctor on a visit to your home. We will always tell you about this and ask your permission. This is helping in the training of future GPs. Nevertheless, should you wish to see your Doctor without taking part, your treatment will be unaffected.

 

Other Services

The Practice provides many other services, which are not part of the NHS so you  may be charged for them, for example, providing certificates, insurance reports and reports for private health organisations. You can see a list of our fees for these services at Reception.

 

Clinical Commissioning Group

The health organisation responsible for the delivery of primary medical services in our area is:-

 

Richmond Clinical Commissioning Group

1st Floor Civic Centre, 44 York Street, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 3BZ

Tel 020 8734 3000

 

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

Tel 020 8734 3001

This telephone number is invaluable when you need advice, have concerns or need support about your treatment in any part of the National Health Service.